Common Dog Diseases And Symptoms You Need To Watch Out For

by Geraldine Dimarco

Dogs are definitely great animals to have around as pets. We usually equate them with fun and happy-go-lucky times, and well we should. However, we must be knowledgeable about the common dog diseases that may fall upon our dog so we will know how to treat them when the need arises. Here are several dog diseases and symptoms that we should avoid.

Heartworms are parasitic worms that infect the canine's heart and lungs. Mosquitoes are the primary culprit of this particular ailment. Notice if the dog has cough or is showing unusual fatigue-- these are signs that he has contracted heartworm. If they are untreated, the dog's condition may worsen to congestive heart failure.

Parvovirus is a canine intestinal condition and is one of the deadliest and most common dog diseases. Canines catch this in unsanitary places. When infected fecal matter enters into their system, the virus spreads and shows itself right away. Significantly decreased appetite, bloody diarrhea, lethargy and vomiting are symptoms which must be addressed as soon as it manifests. Parvovirus is dangerous and fast-acting. A few days after the onset of the symptoms without proper treatment will result in the canine's demise.

Another deadly disease caused by unsanitary living condition is distemper. It has no cure and canines have a fifty percent chance of survival when they are infected. Symptoms of distemper include chest congestion, coughing, severe diarrhea and discharge from the canine's eyes and nose.

Rabies is a viral disease associated often with dogs even though other animals like raccoons, cats and bats also carry this disease. The nervous system of the dog breaks down when they become infected with rabies. First, the dog will have fever and its eyes will have slower reflexes. Afterward, they will display alarming and aggressive behavior. Eventually this will lead to the last stage which is the ultimate failure of the canine's motor abilities. Euthanize the animal immediately when they have rabies as others can easily be infected through contaminated saliva.

The canine disease bloat is the result of the canine's overeating. When this happens, their stomachs become twisted and it cuts off the vital blood supply as well as trapping gas. This is extremely painful for the animal and will typically lead to a quick death. Be watchful when your pet eats his meals that he doesn't consume his food too fast. Indicators of bloat are depression, restlessness and dry heaving.

Studies show that many of our pets are susceptible to obesity. While it is not generally a fatal condition, it complicates many dog medical conditions and is harmful to its general health. Obese dogs suffer more stress in their vital organs and will be a higher risk if they ever need to be operated on. A good nutritional diet will be beneficial for their over-all health.

Knowing about these dog diseases and symptoms will help you treat your canine's needs appropriately. However, it must be said that preventive measures are far better so your pets do not have to undergo illness or discomfort at all. Exercise, diet and environment are factors to watch to keep them as healthy as possible.



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